Renowned fashion designer and model, Kimora Lee Simmons, has reportedly set the ball rolling to change her name and make her life less complicated. The move involves seeking official permission to drop the last names of some of her exes, including hip-hop mogul, Russell Simmons.
According to legal documents accessed by TMZ, Kimora Lee Perkins, better known as Kimora Lee Simmons, has filed a petition to change her name back to her maiden name, Kimora Lee Perkins. This move comes after years of carrying the names of her ex-husbands, Russell Simmons and Djimon Hounsou in her name.
The South African Perspective
In South Africa, name changes are not an uncommon occurrence, particularly following a divorce. Many South African women opt to revert to their maiden names after divorce or choose to keep their ex-spouses’ last names mainly for the benefit of their children. However, this process can be time-consuming and requires legal documentation to be fully recognized by the law.
Kimora’s decision resonates with many South African women who have faced similar situations. It’s a reminder of the personal and emotional journey one needs to navigate after a divorce, and how simplifying one’s life can sometimes mean letting go of a part of your past.
Kimora’s Journey
Kimora Lee Simmons, who began her modelling career at the tender age of 14, married Def Jam co-founder Russell Simmons in 1998. Following their divorce in 2009, she married actor Djimon Hounsou, which ended in 2012. Throughout these years, she carried the last names of both men.
The fashion mogul has always been open about her life and experiences. Her decision to drop her exes’ last names is seen as an effort to simplify her life and perhaps, begin a new chapter. It’s a move that many South Africans can relate to, as they face the complexities of modern relationships, name changes, and finding self-identity after a divorce.
In South Africa, where divorce rates are on the rise, Kimora’s decision to drop her exes’ names could serve as a rallying cry for many women seeking to reclaim their identities after the end of a marriage.
Source: TMZ
